Presiding Bishopric
The Presiding Bishopric is a council of three men who work under the direction of the First Presidency. They manage such matters as humanitarian aid, welfare programs, tithing and fast offerings, physical facilities, and the organization of membership records, among others. They also travel frequently to minister to Church members around the world.
The Presiding Bishopric consists of the Presiding Bishop and his two counselors. Each member of the Presiding Bishopric is a General Authority and holds the office of bishop. They are called by the First Presidency and work under their direction.
The Presiding Bishopric administers temporal matters, such as welfare, finances, physical facilities, and humanitarian efforts, for the entire Church (see Doctrine and Covenants 107:68). They also teach the gospel and build up the kingdom of God throughout the world.
The first bishop of the Church was called in 1831, one year after the Church’s organization. The bishop’s primary responsibilities included managing the Church’s finances and property, caring for the poor, and storing surplus goods for times of need. The Presiding Bishopric now performs similar duties for the Church as a whole. In addition, local bishops care for the poor and needy and preside over the Aaronic Priesthood in their congregations.